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AJCE, 2018, 8(2) ISSN 2227-5835
49
UTILIZATION OF LEARNING ACTIVITY PACKAGE IN THE
CLASSROOM: IMPACT ON SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL
STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT IN ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
*1David Agwu Udu and 2Charles .U. Eze
1Department of Science Education, Faculty of Education,
Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ikwo (FUNAI) Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
2Department of Science and Computer Education
Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Enugu
Correspondence Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
This study examined the impact of the utilization of Learning Activity Package (LAP) in
the classroom and its effect on urban and rural students’ academic achievement in organic
chemistry. Two research questions and three hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted
quasi-experimental design. The population comprised 4,164 senior secondary two (SS2) chemistry
students of Afikpo Education zone of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The sample was 235 students drawn
from 4 schools by balloting. The experimental groups were taught with LAP while the control
groups were taught with Lecture. The instruments used were Learning Activity Package Manual
(LAPM) and Chemistry Achievement Test on Organic Chemistry (CATOC) which were validated
by three experts. Reliability index of .82 was obtained for the CATOC using Kuder Richardson’s
formula 20 which showed that it was reliable. The data collected were analyzed using the mean,
standard deviation and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Results of data analysis revealed
among others that, utilization of Learning Activity Package in the classroom had greater impact
on the students’ academic achievement in organic chemistry than the Lecture method.
Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the academic achievement of urban and rural
students in chemistry when taught with LAP and Lecture method. The researcher recommended
among others things that chemistry teachers should be encouraged to utilize the LAP in their
classrooms in order to encourage students’ active engagement in the lesson for enhanced academic
achievement. [African Journal of Chemical Education—AJCE 8(2), July 2018]
AJCE, 2018, 8(2) ISSN 2227-5835
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INTRODUCTION
The teacher’s role in every teaching and learning process cannot be overemphasised. This
is because the pace set by the teacher in the classroom is what determines whether students can
learn or not. Moreover, the teaching strategies/methods adopted by the teacher will either enhance
or hamper the students’ academic achievement, especially in chemistry. According to [1],
methodology is the ways and means by which the teacher presents his materials to the students
and engages them in task at hand. Chemistry being a subject most students are perhaps afraid of
requires the teachers to use appropriate teaching methods that will arouse the students’ interest and
encourage them to develop positive attitude for effective learning outcome.
Generally, science educators have been canvassing for science teachers at all levels to focus
on the utilisation of teaching strategies that can enhance students’ conceptual understanding, give
them higher levels of performance in scientific thinking, reasoning and problem solving. It is
important to point out that chemistry play important roles in the scientific and technological
development of nations [2].
Unfortunately, research studies have shown that Nigerian secondary school students’
performance in the subject chemistry in both internal and external examinations have consistently
been poor [3,4,5]. Meanwhile, researchers have discovered that the causes of the persistent poor
academic performance have been attributed to; ineffective teaching methods/strategies adopted by
chemistry teachers [6,7]; apparent difficulty associated to chemistry by students [8]; among others
reasons.
Based on these facts, the researcher is of the view that when chemistry teachers utilises
appropriate teaching strategies, which are student-centred and activity-oriented, the chemistry
concepts would be easily understood by the students. This can lead to improved students’ academic
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performance in the subject. There are many student-centred and activity-oriented teaching
strategies, but this study focussed on the Learning Activity Package (LAP). Available empirical
evidence as documented in the literature review section of this study has shown that the learning
activity package (LAP) enhances students’ academic achievement more than the conventional
teaching approaches. This present study is poised to investigate the effectiveness or otherwise of
LAP in enhancing students’ academic achievement in organic chemistry.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Theoretical framework
The theoretical foundations of LAP grew out of the work of psychologist, Jean Piaget, who
in 1926 advanced a theory to explain the development of cognitive abilities in children [9]. Piaget
proposed that cognitive development proceeds through an orderly sequence of stages. Piaget’s
theory is not only concerned with a child’s mental developmental stages but also recognises the
differences in individuals of the same age groups or mental state. He stressed further that
recognising the differences that exists among learners’ mental readiness, interest and needs, will
enhance the setting of learners on a learning pedestal appropriate to each stage of mental
development. The learners will gradually work at their own pace and accomplish the terminal task,
irrespective of their speed or educational linkage.
Therefore, Piaget’s idea tallies with learning activity package instructional strategy, which
caters for learners’, interests, needs and aspirations. According to Piaget, mental activity of the
child is organised into structures. Various mental activities are related to each other and grouped
together in clusters, which are known as ‘schemas’ or patterns of behaviour. According to
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Woolfolk and Nicolich in [10], the schema is the primary unit of cognitive organisation in the
Piagetian system. This means that it is the basic building block of thinking.
Piaget believed that mental activity which is involved in cognitive organisation is a process
of adaptation which is divided into two opposing but inseparable processes of assimilation and
accommodation. In assimilation, a child fits his new experience into pre-existing mental structures.
He interprets his new experience with respect to his old experience. Accommodation involves a
change of mental structure due to the influence of the environment which means the modification
of self to fit the new materials. The Piagetian theory thus places the child as the principal agent in
the teaching/learning situation.
This being the case, the teacher’s job is to provide the individual with situations that
encourage experimentation and manipulation of objects and symbols. More so, the theory has
direct implication for the use of Learning Activity Package in science teaching, especially in
Chemistry. This is based on the fact that the LAP encourages active interaction of the child with
his environment because it is student-centred and activity-based. The teacher acting as a facilitator
of learning guides the students through series of activities and problems, which enhances
achievement. In addition, learning materials are broken into small steps which are sequentially
arranged from known to unknown and in an increasing order of difficulty in LAP.
From the foregoing, Learning Activity Package accommodates both fast and slow learners
in the classroom. It should therefore be used to teach the concepts in organic chemistry which will
help to concretize the apparent abstractness of the concepts and will also help the students to learn.
[11] opined that it is essentially important for the students to participate actively rather than merely
listen during class lessons.
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The Learning Activity Package (LAP)
According to Cardarelli in [10], Learning Activity Package (LAP) is a student-cantered
and activity-based teaching strategy, where the teacher acts as facilitator of learning, guiding the
students through series of activities and problems that may lead to enhanced students’ academic
achievement. Contributing, [12] stated that Learning Activity Package is a program of study in
printed form which covers a particular aspect of a subject that follows a logical sequence of
instructional objectives and activities for implementing the objectives. The student proceeds
through the objectives and activities in the LAP at his/her own pace. Continuing, Duke maintained
that in LAP, the learning materials are broken down and arranged sequentially into small steps,
ranging from the known to the unknown and in an increasing order of difficulty. This implies from
the foregoing that in the LAP instructions are individualised.
Furthermore, Learning Activity Package offers a very practical and successful method for
individualizing instruction. For instance, it gives students the opportunity to engage actively in the
teaching and learning process by engaging in hands-on activities. Unlike the traditional classroom
where the teacher talks much and the students go through their textbooks and workbooks, page by
page, lock stepped together. Furthermore, in the traditional/conventional method, there is little or
no provision for meeting differences in individual learning styles or differences in individual
learning rates. But, the LAP provides the students the opportunity to grow in self-discipline, self-
motivation and also presents occasions for genuine interaction between the teacher and students,
which is lacking in the traditional method of teaching [13].
Contributing, [14] emphasised that the Learning Activity Package is one of the approaches
to individualised instruction. There are many other approaches to individualised instructions such
as; programmed instruction, computer assisted instruction, independent study, among others.
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Some of these approaches have been investigated and found to be effective in enhancing students’
academic achievement but their applications in the teaching and learning process are hindered by
several factors in Nigerian schools [15,10]. Hence the need for the use of Learning Activity
Package (LAP) which can be readily prepared/constructed by the chemistry teachers.
Influence of School Location on Students’ Academic Achievement in Chemistry
For the purpose of this study, the urban schools are those schools located within the Local
Government Headquarters, while the rural schools are those located outside the Local Government
headquarters. School location refers to the particular place, in relation to other areas/places in the
physical environment where a particular school is sited. It could be urban or rural. Basically,
environment may have direct or indirect influence on human abilities; it could enhance or inhibit
ability to learn [16]. [17] discovered a lot of problems in the teaching and learning of science and
technology in the rural environments, such as; high student-teacher ratio, teaching method factor,
quality and quantity of science teachers, problem of improvisation, lack of fund for science
education and inadequate supervision of rural secondary schools. It is not known whether these
factors can contribute to students’ poor academic performance in the rural schools. This study is
poised to find out.
From the foregoing, school location could be a factor that can influence students’
achievement in chemistry. [18], found that school location influences student’s academic
achievement in chemistry. Specifically, [19,20], revealed that urban students had higher academic
achievement than their rural counterparts in chemistry. In addition, [21] found that chemistry
students in urban schools performed better than their rural counterparts. On the other hand, [22,16]
reported that rural students performed better than their urban counterparts in chemistry. However,
[23,24] found no significant influence of school location on students’ academic achievement in
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chemistry. It can be established from the above that the influence of school location on students’
academic achievement remains inconclusive and therefore calls for further studies, thereby
justifying this present study.
Related Empirical Studies
Few researchers have examined the effect of Learning Activity Package on students’
academic achievement. A study on the effect of Learning Activity Package (LAP) on male and
female students’ academic achievement in secondary school Biology was carried out by [10] in
Enugu State. The study specifically determined the mean achievement scores of male and female
students in Biology when taught Unit of life with Learning Activity Package and lecture method.
The study found significant difference in the academic achievement of students taught Biology
using LAP and Lecture methods; those students taught with LAP had higher academic
achievement than those taught with Lecture method. The study concluded that students’ academic
achievement will be greatly enhanced when innovative strategies like Learning Activity Package
are employed in the teaching and learning of science subjects. Neboh’s study was on the effects of
LAP and Lecture methods on students’ achievement in Biology but did not consider the effect of
location. Moreover, the study was conducted in Enugu State. This present study was conducted in
Chemistry and considered location as a variable.
In another study on the effectiveness of LAP and Lecture instructional methods of teaching
Biology at the senior secondary level of education in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria [15]. The result
showed that LAP enhanced the students’ achievement in Biology irrespective of their previous
academic standings. The study was only confined to two schools in Zaria Township and no attempt
was made by the researcher to control some extraneous variables that might have constituted a
threat to the validity of the study such as irregular participation of the subjects and inter-group
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communication during the experiment. Furthermore, school location was not considered a variable
in the study. But, this present study considered school location as variable. Extraneous variables
such as teacher effect, subject interaction, Hawthorne effect etc. were controlled. Above all, this
study focused on Chemistry and was conducted in Ebonyi State.
More so, studies conducted by [16] on influence of gender and location on students’
achievement in chemical bonding in secondary schools in Nsukka education zone of Enugu State
Nigeria, found that school location has significant influence on students’ achievement in
chemistry. The study showed that the mean academic achievement score of rural students in
chemical bonding was higher than that of their urban counterparts.
Meanwhile, most of the related empirical studies already carried out on the LAP were
conducted in Biology. It therefore becomes necessary to conduct this present study in Chemistry.
To find out if similar results obtained in Biology could also be obtained in Chemistry.
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Research studies have shown that Nigerian candidates in the West African School
Certificate Examinations have been recording consistent poor performance in chemistry
[25,26,4,5]. In a bid to identify the possible causes of this persistent poor academic performance,
researchers have identified the use of ineffective teaching methods by the teachers and the apparent
difficulty associated to chemistry by students, among others reasons that could be responsible.
Moreover, students find organic chemistry difficult to understand, this might be as a result of the
apparent abstract nature of the concepts and the pedagogic approaches adopted by teachers in
presenting it to the students [27]. Meanwhile, research studies have acknowledged the
effectiveness of the learning activity package (LAP) in enhancing greater students’ academic
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performance in some subject areas as presented in the literature. This present study therefore
examined the learning activity package instructional strategy, to find out whether it can as well be
effective in enhancing students’ academic performance in organic chemistry.
PURPOSE OF THE STUDY, RESEARCH QUESTIONS AND HYPOTHESES
The main purpose of this study is to examine the utilisation of Learning Activity Package
(LAP) in the classroom and its impact on students’ academic achievement in organic chemistry.
Specifically, this study sought to determine the;
1. Impact of Learning Activity Package on students’ academic achievement in organic
chemistry;
2. Influence of teaching methods (LAP and Lecture) on urban and rural students’ academic
achievement in organic chemistry.
3. Interaction effect of method and location on students’ academic achievement in organic
chemistry.
In order to achieve the purpose of this research work, the study sought answers to the
following questions:
1. Is there any significant difference in the academic achievement of students taught organic
chemistry with LAP and those taught with conventional (Lecture) method?
2. Does significant difference exist in the academic achievement of urban and rural students
taught organic chemistry with LAP and conventional (Lecture) method?
The following null hypotheses tested at 5% level of significance guided the study;
H01. There is no significant difference in the academic achievement of students taught organic
chemistry with LAP and those taught with conventional (Lecture) method.
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H02. Significant difference does not exist in the academic achievement of urban and rural
students taught organic chemistry with LAP and conventional (Lecture) method.
H03. The interaction effect of method and location on students’ academic achievement in
organic chemistry is not significant.
METHODOLOGY
Research Design
The researcher adopted quasi-experimental design for the study. The pre-test, post-test,
non-equivalent, control group design was the specific quasi-experimental design used. Quasi-
experiments are experiments used when a researcher cannot use random assignment of subjects or
groups [28]. The design was chosen because the subjects for the study could not be manipulated
or randomised. Intact classes were used and the classes were assigned to experimental and control
groups.
Area of the Study
The study was carried out in Afikpo Education zone which is one of the three educational
zones of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The zone is made up of five local government areas with 35 senior
secondary schools that offer chemistry at WAEC level. The names of the local governments with
the numbers of schools are as follows; Afikpo North has 10 schools, Afikpo South has 8 schools,
Ohaozara has 6 schools, Onicha has 8 schools while Ivo has 3 schools. The zone was selected for
this study because the schools are homogenous and are under the same education authority.
Secondly, for ease of access and convenience for effective management of the available financial
resources meant for the study. This is because the researcher had to monitor the activities of the
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teachers to ensure their agreement with the stipulated plans of the study by visiting the sampled
schools regularly during the period of the study.
Population, Sample and Sampling Techniques
The population for the study was 4,164 Senior Secondary 2 chemistry students in Afikpo
Education zone in the 2015/2016 academic session. This grade of students was chosen because
organic chemistry is contained in the SS2 section of the chemistry curriculum in use in Nigerian
schools.
Using simple random sampling (balloting) technique, a sample of 235 SSII chemistry
students (125 urban and 110 rural) was drawn from 4 co-educational (2 urban and 2 rural)
secondary schools in Afikpo Education zone of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Two intact classes in each
of the schools were randomly assigned to experimental groups (120 students) and control groups
(115 students). The sampled schools were selected on the bases that there were co-educational and
chemistry had been taught in the schools for over ten years. Also, the number of students in each
of the classes was not more than 40.
Instruments for Data Collection, Validation and Reliability
Two major instruments were used for the study, they are; Learning Activity Package
Manual (LAPM) and Chemistry Achievement Test on Organic Chemistry (CATOC). The LAPM
was adapted from the works of [29] who constructed the Learning Activity Package that comprised
seven basic components/parts; the pre-test, performance objectives, concept, learning activities,
self-test/evaluation, mastery/post-test, and enrichment opportunities. The LAP manual covered the
following contents in organic chemistry as contained in SS2 chemistry curriculum; Structure and
valency of carbon; Hydrocarbon; Homologous series; Saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons;
Isomerism; and Aromatic hydrocarbons.
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The CATOC comprised 25 multiple-choice test items drawn from the various organic
chemistry units outlined above. The researcher developed the test items using a test blue-print/table
of specification to determine number of test items for each topic along three categories of cognitive
objective, namely: knowledge (remembering), comprehension (understanding) and application
(thinking). Each test item had four response options A - D with only one option as the correct
answer while others were distracters.
Both the LAPM and the CATOC were content and face validated by two experts in
chemistry education and one expert in measurement and evaluation from the Faculty of Education
of Ebonyi State University. The instruments were revised based on the experts’ suggestions.
Specifically, the test items of the CATOC were adjusted and evaluated according to the experts’
comments before it was used as pre-test and post-test.
The reliability of the CATOC was determined by pilot-testing the testing it on 40 SS2
chemistry students of Government Technical College, Abakaliki who were not part of the study
subjects. Using Kuder-Richardson formula 20 (KR-20) reliability index of .82 was obtained, which
confirmed the instrument as being reliable. This was in line with the established standard that any
instrument with reliability index of .7 and above is adjudged reliable [30].
Procedure for Data Collection and Method of Data Analysis
The researcher organised a 5-day seminar/workshop for the regular chemistry teachers of
the sampled schools where they were trained on the use of the learning activity package (LAP) in
chemistry lesson delivery. During the seminar/workshop, copies of the LAPM which was derived
from the organic chemistry curriculum contents of the students were given to the teachers. They
were drilled thoroughly by the researcher on the use of the Learning Activity Package in chemistry
instructions. The researcher observed as the teachers utilised the LAPM in delivering the lesson
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and made corrections where necessary. The teachers were instructed to teach the control group
using the conventional (lecture) method the way they have been using it in their classrooms. After
the seminar, the teachers commenced the exercise in their respective schools. On the first day of
commencement of the exercise, each of the teachers administered the CATOC to the students, as
pre-test for the duration of 50 minutes and recorded their scores.
Experimental group
The treatment was teaching the students using the Learning Activity Package for the
duration of four weeks. Four experimental lessons were carried out on different topics in organic
chemistry.
Procedure: The teacher distributed the LAP manual to the students. Each student was to carry out
the required activities as contained in the manual. The Pre-test was to test the student’s knowledge
of the subject matter, note that the pre-test in the LAP differed from the pre-test which was initially
administered to the students before the commencement of the experiments. After the pre-test, the
performance objectives were identified. The Concept; defined, explained and illustrated the
contents of the topic. The students thereafter carried out the learning activities expected of them
on individual bases. When through with the learning activities, each student engaged in self-
test/evaluation to test their understanding of the material studied. They proceed to mastery/post-
test, if they answered the self-test correctly or to enrichment opportunities which entailed studying
more materials until they can answer the self-test correctly. Each student progressed on the manual
at their own pace. The teacher uses the mastery test to assess each student’s progress to know
whether a student can proceed to the next lesson or needed to be drilled more on the particular
lesson/topic. At the end of the four weeks’ treatment, a post-test (which was a reshuffled version
of the pre-test) was administered to the students and the scores recorded.
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Control
The pre-test was first administered to the students. The teacher thereafter taught them four
lessons in organic chemistry using the conventional (lecture) method. The lessons were delivered
using the chalk and chalkboard. The students were given assignments which the teacher marked
and went through the corrections with them. At the end of the four weeks’ duration, the post-test
was administered to the students and the scores recorded.
The pre-test and post-test scores of the experimental and control groups were used for data
analysis. The research questions were answered by using the results to calculate the mean
achievement scores and standard deviations of the groups, whereas the hypotheses were tested
with Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) using the pre-test scores as covariates.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Research question 1: Is there any difference in the academic achievement of students taught
organic chemistry with LAP and those taught with conventional (Lecture) method?
Table 1: Mean Achievement Scores and Standard deviations of Students
Experimental
Conditions
Teaching
Method
Test
Type
No. Of
Subjects
(N)
Mean
(X)
Standard
Deviation
(SD)
Gain
Score
Experimental LAP Pre-test
Post-test
120
7.60
27.15
3.15
6.13
19.55
Control Lecture Pre-test
Post-test
115
7.45
18.15
3.40
5.80
10.70
Total 235
As shown in Table 1, the mean scores of the students taught organic chemistry with LAP
and Lecture method are 7.60 and 7.45 respectively in the pre-tests. The difference in the pre-test
mean scores of the two groups is .15. This shows that the two groups were similar at the beginning
of the experiment. The Table 1 further shows that the mean achievement score of the students
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taught organic chemistry with LAP in the post-test is 27.15 with standard deviation of 6.13 and
mean achievement gain score of 19.55. On the other hand, the mean achievement score of those
taught with the Lecture method in the post-test is 18.15 with standard deviation of 5.80 and mean
achievement gain score of 10.70. The difference in the mean achievement gain scores of the two
groups is 8.85. Therefore, difference exists in the academic achievement of students taught with
LAP and those taught with Lecture method. Those students taught with LAP had higher academic
achievement than their counterparts who were taught with Lecture method. Moreover, the standard
deviations of the two groups in the post-tests are 6.13 and 5.80 for the LAP and Lecture method
respectively. This is an indication that the individual scores of the students were clustered around
the mean in the Lecture method more than in the LAP.
However, Table 1 did not show whether the observed difference in the mean achievement
score of the two groups in the post-test is significant. Therefore, the result was further subjected
to inferential testing as shown in hypothesis 1, in order to ascertain whether the observed difference
is significance or not.
Hypothesis 1: There is no significant difference in the academic achievement of students taught
organic chemistry with LAP and those taught with conventional (Lecture) method.
Table 2: Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) of Students’ Overall Achievement Scores by Teaching Method and Location
Source of
Variation
Type III
Sum of
Squares
Df Mean
Square
F-cal P-value Decision
Corrected Model 658.942 2 329.471 3.675 .013 S
Intercept 126530.064 1 126530.064 2117.296 .000 S
Method 658.942 2 329.471 3.675 .013 S
Location 198.450 1 198.450 3.321 .070 NS
Method X Location 48.606 2 24.303 .814 .636 NS
Error 13804.607 231 59.760
Total 142066.000 235
Corrected Total 14463.549 234
S = Significant (P ˂ .05); NS = Not Significant (P ˃ .05)
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Table 2 shows that there is a significant difference in the academic achievement of students
taught organic chemistry with LAP and those taught with conventional (lecture) method. This is
because from the table, the probability value of .013 obtained is lower than the level of .05 at which
it was tested. Therefore, the null hypothesis (Ho1) of no significant difference in the students’
academic achievement is rejected at .05 level of confidence. This means that the earlier observed
difference in the overall mean achievement scores of students taught organic chemistry with LAP
and those taught with conventional (lecture) method, as shown in Table 1 is significant.
Furthermore, the academic achievement of the students taught with LAP having been found
to be higher than those taught with the conventional (lecture) method signifies that LAP had greater
impact on the students’ academic achievement in the organic chemistry than the lecture method.
Research question 2: Does significant difference exist in the academic achievement of urban and
rural students taught organic chemistry with LAP and Lecture method?
Table 3: Mean Achievement Scores and Standard Deviations of Urban and Rural Students
Experimental
Conditions
Teaching
Methods
School
location
Test
type
No. of
subjects
(N)
Mean
(X)
Standard
deviation
(SD)
Gain
Score
Experimental LAP Urban
Rural
Pre-test
Post-test
Pre-test
Post-test
64
61
7.34
26.68
6.75
24.28
3.07
6.66
2.57
8.53
19.34
17.53
Control Lecture Urban
Rural
Pre-test
Post-test
Pre-test
Post-test
56
54
7.40
18.77
6.58
16.72
2.25
6.05
2.48
4.19
11.37
10.14
Total 235
Table 3 shows the mean pre-test and post-test scores of urban and rural students taught
organic chemistry with LAP and Lecture method. The Table 3 shows that the urban students taught
with LAP has mean achievement gain score of 19.34 while their counterparts in the rural schools
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has mean achievement gain score of 17.53. The mean achievement gain score of the urban students
taught with LAP (experimental) is 1.81 higher than that of their rural counterparts.
Furthermore, Table 3 shows that the mean achievement gain score of the urban students in
the control group taught with Lecture method is 11.37 while that of their rural counterparts is
10.14. From this result, the mean achievement gain score of the urban students taught with Lecture
method (control) is 1.23 higher than that of their rural counterparts. These results shows that
differences exist in the mean achievement scores of urban and rural students taught with LAP and
Lecture method. However, it was not shown on the Table whether the observed differences in the
urban and rural students’ mean achievement scores in the LAP and Lecture method are significant.
Therefore, the result was further subjected to inferential testing in order to ascertain whether the
observed difference is significance, as shown in hypothesis 2.
Hypothesis 2: Significant difference does not exist in the academic achievement of urban and rural
students taught organic chemistry with LAP and Lecture method.
From Table 2, non-significant difference was found in the Post-achievement test scores of
the urban and rural students. This is because the probability value of .070 obtained is greater than
the level of .05 at which it was tested. With this result, Ho2 was retained because the observed
difference in the academic achievement of urban and rural students in organic chemistry is not
significant. Thus, the efficacy of the methods in enhancing students’ achievement in chemistry
according to this finding was not influenced by school location.
Hypothesis 3: The interaction effect of method and location on students’ academic achievement
in organic chemistry is not significant.
In Table 2, the F-value for the interaction effect of method and location on students’
academic achievement in organic chemistry is .814 with P-value of .636 which is greater than .05
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set for the study. With this result, Ho3 was retained. Hence, the two-way interaction of method
and location has no significant effect on students’ academic achievement in organic chemistry.
Meanwhile, since method is significant while the interaction with location is not, it therefore shows
that method does not depend on school location to be effective.
SUMMARY OF MAJOR FINDINGS
1. There is a significant difference in the academic achievement of students taught organic
chemistry with learning activity package and those taught with conventional (lecture)
method.
2. The Learning Activity Package enhances students’ academic achievement in organic
chemistry more than the conventional (lecture) method. This implies that LAP has more
impact on students’ academic achievement than the conventional (lecture) method.
3. There is no significant difference in the academic achievement of urban and rural students
in organic chemistry.
4. The two-way interaction effect of method and location on students’ academic achievement
in organic chemistry is not significant.
DISCUSSION
The findings of this study have shown that students taught with Learning Activity Package
(LAP) had higher academic achievement than those taught with conventional (lecture) method.
The LAP therefore has greater impact on students’ academic achievement in organic chemistry
than the Lecture method. This finding agrees with the findings of previous researchers, [10,15]
that Learning Activity Package (LAP) is more effective than the Lecture method in enhancing
students’ academic achievement in science. Meanwhile, the relative effectiveness of LAP over the
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Lecture method in enhancing students’ academic achievement could be attributed to the fact that
LAP is a student-centred and activity-based method of instruction which provided the students the
opportunity to have direct contact with the materials of study. Given the different approaches by
which the two methods (LAP and Lecture) were utilised, it is not surprising that the LAP had
greater impact on students’ academic achievement than the lecture method.
This study further found no statistically significant difference in the academic achievement
of urban and rural students in organic chemistry. Although the mean achievement scores of urban
students were higher than that of their rural counterparts in the LAP and Lecture method, the
differences were not statistically significant. These shows that the efficacy of the teaching methods
in enhancing students’ achievement was not influenced by school location. This finding agrees
with the findings of [23,24] that there is no significant influence of school location on students’
academic achievement. The finding also agrees with [3] that there is no significant difference in
the academic achievement of urban and rural students in physics. However, the finding of this
study disagrees with the findings of [21,31] that chemistry and mathematics students in urban
schools performed better than their rural counterparts. The finding also disagrees with [16] that
there is significant difference in the academic retention of urban and rural students; the urban
students’ academic achievement was higher than that of their rural counterparts.
The finding of this study also established no significant interaction effect of method and
school location on students’ achievement in organic chemistry. This finding agrees with [22] that
there is no statistically significant interaction effect of method and location on students’ academic
achievement in chemistry. The fact that this present study found no significant interaction effect
of method and location on students’ academic achievement in organic chemistry is a proof to the
fact that method do not depend on school location to be effective.
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CONCLUSION
The major causes of students’ poor academic performance in chemistry have been
attributed to, among other things; the use of ineffective teaching methods/strategies by teachers
and the apparent difficulty associated to organic chemistry by students. These have resulted to
persistent poor academic performance being recorded in both internal and external examinations
by the chemistry students in Nigeria.
This therefore calls for an improvement on the mode and methods of teaching and learning
of the subject, which necessitated this present study to try other alternative strategies of teaching
chemistry, different from the conventional method. Moreover, this study lends empirical support
to the fact that students’ achievement in organic chemistry could be greatly improved when taught
with the Learning Activity Package (LAP) which is an individualised method of instruction,
among other innovative, student-centred and activity-based teaching methods. These innovative
teaching methods have been proven to be effective in facilitating students’ academic achievement
in chemistry better than the lecture method, as supported by the findings of this study. The findings
further revealed no significant influence of school location on students’ academic achievement in
organic chemistry, thereby establishing the fact that when chemistry teachers expose the students
to LAP, their academic achievement could be greatly improved irrespective of their school
location. This study has lent empirical support to the fact that when chemistry teachers
individualises instructions in the classroom, students’ academic achievement will be greatly
enhanced.
The researcher therefore advocates for the chemistry teachers to imbibe the use of student-
centred and activity-based teaching methods such as the Learning Activity Package, and de-
emphasize the use of lecture method in chemistry teaching and learning. Because, effective
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teaching arising from the use of Learning Activity Package, had positive impact on students’
understanding of chemistry concepts and gave rise to higher achievement in the subject.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The researcher recommends as follows;
1. Chemistry teachers should be encouraged to utilise the Learning Activity Package in their
lesson deliveries in order to encourage active engagement and self-motivation among
learners for enhanced academic achievement.
2. The Learning Activity Package should be incorporated into the chemistry curriculum of
teacher training tertiary institutions, so as to popularize its use among the teacher trainees
in order to bring about enhanced achievement in chemistry in the secondary schools.
3. Secondary school chemistry curriculum should be reorganised in such a way as to
incorporate the LAP into the system. This will enable the students to identify problems,
stimulate their thinking ability and allow them to individually approach and solve
chemistry problems.
4. Chemistry teachers should be encouraged to attend regular workshops and seminars to
acquire the requisite skills to enable them make effective use of the Learning Activity
Package in their lesson delivery.
REFERENCES
1. Olayiwola, M.A. (2004). Science teaching methodology, mathematics education research
and chemistry teaching/learning in Nigerian schools: An overview. Proceedings of 45th
Annual Conference of Science Teachers’ Association of Nigeria. 150-155. Heinemann
Education Books Plc.
2. Israel, J.A. (2005). Cases of students’ low enrolment in chemistry. Journal of Empirical
Research in science and technology education (181)
3. Jegede, S.A. (2010). Nigerian students’ perception of technical words in senior secondary
school chemistry curriculum. Pakistan Journal of Social Sciences, 7(2), 109-111.
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4. West African Examination Council, (2014). West African Senior School Certificate
Examination Chief Examiner’s Report. Lagos, Nigeria: WAEC.
5. West African Examination Council, (2015). West African Senior School Certificate
Examination Chief Examiner’s Report. Lagos, Nigeria: WAEC.
6. Oloyede, O. I., & Demide, C. O. (2000). Enhancing transition from concrete to formal
cognitive functioning for improved achievement in chemistry. African Journal of Research
in Education. 1(2), 48-58.
7. Udoh, O. A. (2008). An analysis of classroom interaction of senior secondary school
chemistry teachers in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State Nigeria.
Journal of the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria. 43(1 & 2), 16-22.
8. Olatoye, R.A., Aderogba, A.A. & Aanu, E.M. (2011). Effect of co-operative and
individualized teaching methods on senior secondary school students’ achievement in
organic chemistry. Pacific Journal of Science and Technology. 12(2), 310-319.
9. Neboh, O. I. (2012). Effect of learning activity package (LAP) on male and female
students’ achievement in secondary school biology. Journal of Science and Computer
Education, 2(1) 1-13.
10. Ezeano, C. A. (2013). Science teaching for effective development in Nigerian schools.
Portharcout, Nigeria: Ecnel Printing Press.
11. Novak, J.D. (1993). Can we help students learn how to learn? Journal of Science Teachers’
Association of Nigeria, 60(3), 51-53.
12. Duke, C.R. (1975). Learning activity packages: Construction and implementation. The
High School Journal, 58(7), 312-321. http://www.jstor.org/stable/40365621
13. Arseneau, D. L (1994). A comparison of learning activity packages and open classroom
instruction. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7851264
14. Gibney, M. (2000), Development methodology: Learning activity package. In M.B Parks
(series Ed.), Learning Activity Packages. forte Lauderdale, FL: Nova Southeastern
University, programs for Higher Education.
15. Abu, A.O. (1998). Resource utilisation in classroom: The effect of learning activity
package to teach Biology at the senior secondary level of education. Journal of Science
Teachers Association of Nigeria, 40(2), 103-108.
16. Okorie, E, U., & Ezeh, D, A. (2016). Influence of gender and location on students’
achievement in chemical bonding. Mediterranean journal of social sciences, 7(3), 308-
318.
17. Ndu, F.O.C. (1991). A survey of the problems of teaching and learning science and
technology in the rural environment of Anambra State. Journal of Science Teachers’
Association of Nigeria. 27(1), 47-54.
18. Kissan, S. (2006). Gender difference in motivation to learn French. Canadian Modern
Language Revie., 61 (3), 65-96.
19. Onah, E.F. (2011). Influence of sex and school location on students’ achievement in
agricultural science. African Journal of Science, Technology and Mathematics Education
(AJSTME), 1(1), 96-102.
20. Owoeye, J.S. & Yara, P.O. (2011). School location and academic achievement of
secondary school students in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Asian Social Science (ASS), 7(5), 170-
173.
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21. Ahiaba, J. & Igweonwu, R.N. (2003). A comparative study of the performance of boys and
girls in SSCE science subjects in Dekina L.G.A. of Kogi State. Unpublished Bachelor of
Science Education project, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria.
22. Agbir, J. D. (2004). Development and validation of an instrument for evaluating chemistry
practical skills for senior secondary schools. Unpublished Master of Education thesis,
University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria.
23. Ezeh, D.N. (1998). Nigerian ethnic language groups and achievement in integrated science
among junior secondary school students: implications for integrated science teaching.
Conference Proceeding of the 39th Annual Conference of Science Teachers Association of
Nigeria , 201-205.
24. Ezeudu, S.A. (2003). Classroom environment as correlate of students’ cognitive
achievement in senior secondary school Geography. The Journal of World Congress on
Computational Intelligence. 4(2), 65-73.
25. Oyelekan, O. S. & Olorundare, A. S. (2009). Development and validation of a computer
instructional package on electrochemistry for secondary schools in Nigeria. International
Journal of Education and Development Using ICT. 5(2), 88-104.
26. Oyelekan, O. S., Olorundare, A. S., & Anyimigbo, A. O. (2013). Teachers’ perception of
secondary students’ difficulties in understanding gas laws. Journal of Science, Technology,
Mathematics and Education. 9(3), 194-206.
27. Oyelekan, O. S. (2006). Secondary school students’ level of understanding of selected
chemistry concepts in Osun State, Nigeria. The African Symposium, an online Journal of
African Educational Research Network, 6(3&4), 68-75.
28. Nworgu, B.G (2006). Educational research basic issues and methodology. Enugu, Nigeria:
University trust publishers.
29. Ward, P.S., & Williams, E.C. (1976). Learning packets: New approach to individualizing
instruction. http://ebooks.gutengberg.us/AuthorsCommunity/learningpackets
30. Borich, G. G. D. (2004). Effective teaching method, fifth edition. Upper Saddle River, NJ:
Prentice Hall.
31. Nwogu, E. (2010). An inquiry into the major difficulties expressed / exhibited by junior
secondary school students in solving problems involving angles. Unpublished Bachelor of
Science Education Project, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria.
APPENDICES: SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS
Appendix A: LEARNING ACTIVITY PACKAGE MANUAL
LEARNING ACTIVITY PACKAGE MANUAL FOR SENIOR SECONDARY
SCHOOL TWO (SSII) STUDENTS ON ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
INSTRUCTIONS:
This Learning Activity Package Manual (LAPM) is specifically designed to expose you to contents
and activities in organic chemistry, for effective learning.
You will be provided with all necessary information to enable you achieve the purpose. You will
go through the package step by step at your own pace. You will also be required to complete each
learning activity, record your observations and thereafter respond to the questions that follow. You
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are free to request for assistance from your teacher on areas you might experience some difficulties
during the lesson.
The performance objectives of each topic are stated at the beginning of each lesson to enable you
have a focus of what you are required to achieve by the end of the lesson. You are expected to
keep good record of your work.
WEEK 1: Lessons One
TOPIC: Organic Chemistry
Sub-topic: Structure and valency of carbon
Duration: 4 periods (40 minutes per period)
Pre-Test:
Answer the following questions;
1. List 4 different forms in which carbon can exist?
2. What is the valency of carbon?
3. Give 4 reasons why carbon can combine with many substances?
4. Draw the tetrahedral structure of carbon?
Performance Objectives
By the end of the lesson, you should be able to;
1. List the different forms carbon can exist;
2. Determine the valency of carbon;
3. Explain why carbon can combine with many substances;
4. Draw the tetrahedral structure of carbon.
Concept
Carbon
Carbon is the name for the element with atomic number 6 and is represented by the symbol C.
Carbon has 6 protons, 6 neutrons and 6 electrons. It is a non-metal that belong to group 4 in the
periodic table. It occurs naturally as diamond and graphite in a pure form. Carbon also occurs in
an impure form as coal; it occurs in the combined state as petroleum, wood and natural gases.
Other sources that contain carbon are mineral deposits of metallic trioxocarbonates(iv) eg. Calcium
trioxocarbonate(iv), limestone, and Magnesium trioxocarbonate(iv), dolomite; Carbon(iv)oxide in
air and water; Charcoal which is of various forms or types eg. Wood charcoal, animal charcoal,
sugar charcoal, etc; Coke, which is obtained by heating coal in the absence of air to a very high
temperature otherwise known as the destructive distillation of coal; and finally soot or carbon black
(lamp black).
Structure and valency of carbon:
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The carbon atom has four unpaired valence electrons in its outermost (L) shell. This enables the
carbon atom to form four single covalent bonds by sharing electrons with neighbouring atoms,
which may be carbon atoms or atoms of other elements, so that the outermost shell of its atom is
completely filled. The four covalent bonds of carbon are directed symmetrically in space at an
angle of 109.5o to one another, i.e. they are arranged in a tetrahedral form, so that they point
towards the corners of a regular tetrahedron when the carbon atom is placed in its centre.
C
Reasons why carbon can form numerous stable organic compounds:
1. Catenation: this is the ability of atoms of the same element to form long chains or rings. Carbon
is unique in its ability to form very long chains, branched chains or ring compounds.
2. Multiple bonds: carbon is the only element in group (iv) which forms stable double and triple
bonds to itself and to oxygen, sulphur and nitrogen.
3. When carbon has filled shell, it has no lone pair of electrons and cannot act as donor, because
strong bonds are formed and this results in lack of reactivity of many carbon compounds.
4. The ease with which carbon combines with hydrogen, nitrogen and the halogens.
5. The ability of carbon atoms to form single, double or triple bonds and the strong carbon-carbon
bonds formed.
Learning Activity 1.1
Construction of 3 dimensional model/structure of Carbon Atom
Materials: Coloured (Styrofoam) balls, poster board/cardboard paper, compass, glue, plasticine,
pair of scissors and string.
Method/Procedure
1. Get 12 styrofoam balls of different colours (6 of one colour for the protons and 6 of another
colour for the neutrons) and 6 small plasticine balls for the electrons.
2. Glue the six protons and six neutrons into a ball, alternating between protons and neutrons
as you glue.
3. Cut a small ring and a large ring out of cardboard paper. Use string to tie these rings in
concentric circles around the nucleus.
4. Glue/place two electrons to the inner circle and four to the outer circle.
5. Attach string to the outer circle for hanging.
Learning Activity questions
Answer the followings questions;
a. Why did you glue the protons and neutrons together?
b. Why did you not glue the electrons together with the proton and neutron?
c. What charge has the proton, neutron and electron?
d. What does the small and large cut cardboard paper rings represent?
109.5o
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Self-Test / Evaluation
Answer the following questions;
1. Give 4 reasons why carbon can combine with many substances?
2. Draw the tetrahedral structure of carbon?
3. List 4 different forms in which carbon can exist?
4. What is the valency of carbon?
Mastery / Post-test;
Answer the following questions;
1. What is carbon?
2. Draw the electronic structure of carbon?
3. What are the forms in which carbon can exist in the pure state?
Enrichment Opportunities
Study pages 512 – 513 of New School Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools by Osei Yaw
Ababio, 2010 edition.
Also study pages 136 – 137 of Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN) Chemistry for
Senior Secondary Schools.
WEEK 2: Lesson Two
TOPIC: Organic Chemistry
Sub-topic: Hydrocarbons, Isomerism, Homologous series, Functional groups and
Nomenclature
Duration: 6 periods (40 minutes per period)
Pre-test:
Answer the following questions;
1. What are hydrocarbons?
2. Define the term isomerism and give 3 examples?
3. What is homologous series?
4. Define functional groups and give 4 examples?
5. What are the procedures for naming an organic compound?
Performance objectives
By the end of the lesson, you should be able to;
1. Explain the meaning of hydrocarbons;
2. Give the definition of isomerism and some examples;
3. Explain the meaning of homologous series;
4. Define the term functional groups and give some examples;
5. Outline the procedures for naming organic compounds.
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Concept
Hydrocarbons
Hydrocarbons are organic compounds composed only of two elements, carbon and hydrogen, just
as their name imply. They are among the simplest organic compounds. They have the general
molecular formula of CxHy, where x and y are whole numbers. The hydrocarbons are among the
simplest organic compounds. Some examples are; Methane CH4, Propane C3H8, Pentane C5H12,
Benzene C6H6, etc.
The hydrocarbons are classified into two main groups; Aliphatic and Aromatic hydrocarbons.
The Aliphatic hydrocarbons
These are organic compounds composed of carbon-carbon chains. They could be straight chain,
branched chain or in the form of a ring.
They are sub-divided into two, based on the structure; Acyclic and Cyclic aliphatic hydrocarbons.
In the Acyclic aliphatic hydrocarbons, the carbon atoms are joined together to form long straight
or branched chains.
In the Cyclic aliphatic hydrocarbons, the carbon chains join together at the ends to form a ring.
The Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Aromatic hydrocarbons are special class of cyclic compounds based on benzene, C6H6, a 6-carbon
ring compound. All other aromatic compounds are derivatives of benzene, e.g phenylamine
(aniline) and phenol. Some derivatives may also contain straight carbon chains as side chains.
Learning Activity 2.1
Making 3D Models of Hydrocarbons
Materials Needed/Apparatus:
Black coloured plasticine, White coloured plasticine, match stick or tooth pick.
Method / Procedure / Instructions
1. Roll pieces of plasticine into balls, the balls represents atoms.
2. The black plasticine balls will represent carbon atoms while the white plasticine balls will
represent hydrogen atoms.
3. The match stick or toothpick will serve as bond.
4. Push single stick into the carbon atom at 4 different positions making sure that the bonds
are tetrahedrally oriented.
5. Push hydrogen atom (white ball) into each of the bonds (stick).
6. Using the above method, make models of the following hydrocarbons
i. Methane (CH4), ii. Propane (C3H8). iii. Pentane (C5H12).
Isomerism
Isomerism is the existence of two or more compounds that have the same molecular formula (the
same number and types of atoms) but possessing different molecular structure (structural formula)
and different properties. There are structural isomers, geometric isomers, optical isomers and
stereoisomers.
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Example; Butane (C4H10) and 2-methylpropane (C4H10) are isomers; the structures are as shown
below:
C – C – C – C C – C – C
Butane (C4H10) 2-methylpropane (C4H10)
Learning Activity 2.2
Making 3D models of the Isomers of Butane (C4H10)
Using the same materials you used in learning activity 2.1, construct 3 dimensional structures of
the 2 Isomers of Butane; N-Butane and 2-methylpropane.
Homologous series
A homologous series is a family of organic compounds which follows a regular structural pattern,
in which each successive member differs in its molecular formula by – CH2 – group.
It is also a series of compounds in which each member differs from the next by a specific number
and kind of atoms. They show similar chemical properties and have physical properties that change
regularly as the molar mass increases.
With the homologous series, the numerous organic compounds can be grouped into a
comparatively small number of families of compounds. Each member of the series is known as a
homologue. For instance, the alkanes are the simplest homologous series with a general molecular
formula of CnH2n+2 where n is a whole number equal to or greater than 1. Other examples of
homologous series will include; Alkenes (CnH2n), Alkynes (CnH2n-2), Alkanols (CnH2n+1OH),
Carboxylic or Organic acids (CnH2n+1COOH), etc.
Characteristics of homologous series are;
i. All members conform to a general molecular formula as shown in the examples above.
ii. Each homologue differs from the next in molecular formula by – CH2 – and in its relative
molecular mass by an increase in 14.
iii. All members show similar chemical properties.
iv. They posses similar method of preparation.
v. The physical properties of members such as boiling point change gradually as the number
of carbon atoms increases.
The homologous series is very useful in organic chemistry because, it helps in the study of
numerous organic compounds under limited number of families thereby saving us the energy and
time with which we would have been studying the compounds singly. This is because knowing the
homologous series, the properties of a compound could be predicted.
H H
H H H
H
H
H
H
H
H H H H C
H
H
H
H H
H
H
H
H H
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Learning Activity 2.3
Making 3D Structures of examples of homologous series
Materials Needed/Apparatus:
Different colours of plasticine, match stick or tooth pick.
Method / Procedure / Instructions
1. Roll pieces of plasticine into balls, the balls represents atoms.
2. The black balls for carbon atoms, white balls for hydrogen atoms, brown ball for oxygen
atom.
3. The match stick or toothpick for bonds.
4. Using the atoms (plasticine balls) and bonds (match sticks or tooth picks), construct a
model of the following members of homologous series;
i. Alkene (Eg. Ethene, H2C = CH2) ii. Alkanol (Eg. Ethanol, H3C – CH2OH)
iii. Carboxylic acid (Eg. Ethanoic acid, H3C – COOH) note that in the structure, 1 oxygen is
double bonded to the carbon while the other oxygen is single bonded to carbon and
hydrogen.
Functional group
A functional group is an atom, a radical or bond common to a homologous series and which
determines the main chemical properties of the series. If there are two or more functional groups
in one molecule of a compound, the properties of one are often modified or influenced by the
presence of the other.
Examples of functional groups will include; Hydroxyl group – OH, Amino group – NH2, Carboxyl
group – COOH, Amides – CONH2, Double bonded carbon atoms C = C, etc.
The functional groups determine the basic chemistry of a compound, i.e. it is the functional group
that determines the chemical behaviour or characteristics of an organic compound. The functional
group is based on the principle that, the chemical properties of a homologous series will change
when a functional group is attached to a homologue and that the chemical properties of such
homologue will be reflecting the chemical properties of the functional group attached. For
instance, if a halogen is attached to an alkane homologous series, the series will change to
haloalkane homologous series and the chemical properties of the haloalkane homologous series
will be different from those of the alkane homologous series.
IUPAC Nomenclature of Hydrocarbons (IUPAC – International Union of pure and applied
chemistry)
The IUPAC has put forward a system of naming the organic compounds which relates the name
of the compound to its molecular structure. In this system of nomenclature, every name consists
of; a root, suffix, and as many prefixes as necessary.
1. The root name is generally an aliphatic hydrocarbon. The systematic name of a compound is
formed from the root hydrocarbon by adding a suffix and prefixes to denote the substitution of the
hydrogen atoms by an alkyl, functional groups or multiple bonds.
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2. The suffix(es) is/are added to the root to indicate the presence of the principal substituent which
is usually also the principal functional group in the molecule. Compounds that have the same
functional groups such as those belonging to the same homologous series, would carry a common
suffix at the end of their names. Examples are; Alkanes end with – ane eg. Methane (CH4), Ethane
(C2H6) etc.; Alkenes end with – ene eg. Ethene (C2H4), Propene (C3H6) etc.; Alkanols end with –
ol, eg. Methanol (CH3OH), Ethanol (C2H5OH) etc.
Note that a suffix is a sound or syllable(s) added at the end of a word to make another word.
3. The prefix(es) are syllable(s) added in front of the root name of an organic compound.
Cyclic compounds can be indicated by adding the prefix cyclo – to the names of the corresponding
aliphatic compounds eg. Cyclopentane, Cyclohexane, Cyclobutane etc.
4. Prefixes also used to indicate the presence of substituted alkyl or functional groups other than
the principal group, as well as the positions of the substituents in the carbon chain. When more
than one of the same substituent group is present, the multiplying prefixes such as di – for 2, tri –
for 3, tetra – for 4 etc. are used. If more than one prefix is needed, they are placed in alphabetical
order.
5. The positions of the substituent groups and the multiple bonds in the carbon chain of a compound
are indicated by the number of the carbon atom or atoms to which they are attached. In numbering
the carbon atoms, number all the carbon atoms in the longest chain starting from the end which is
closest to the branch chain or other modifications of the simple alkane structure.
Rules of Naming Organic Compounds
i. Take the longest continuous carbon chain as the root hydrocarbon and name it according
to the number of carbon atoms it contains, adding the appropriate suffix to indicate the
principal substituent group.
ii. Number the carbon atoms in the root hydrocarbon from the end which will give the lowest
number to the suffix and then the prefix(es).
iii. Indicate the other substituents by prefixes preceded by numbers to show their positions on
the carbon chain.
Examples of IUPAC names of Organic Compounds
i. CH3 - CH2- CH(CH3)-CH = CH2 ii. CH3-CH2-C(CH3)=CH-CH3
3-Methylpent-1-ene 3-Methylpent-2-ene
iii. Cl-CH2-CH2-CH2-OH iv. H-C(Cl,Cl)-CH(Cl,Cl)
3-Chloropropan-1-ol 1,1,2,2 Tetrachloroethane
Learning Activity 2.4
Making 3D Models of Organic Compounds
Materials Needed/Apparatus:
Different colours of plasticine, match stick or tooth pick.
Method / Procedure / Instructions
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1. Using the different atoms (Plasticine balls) and the sticks, make 3 dimensional models of
the following organic compounds;
i. 3-methylpent-1-ene ii. 3-methylpent-2-ene iii. 3-chloropropan-1-ol
iv. 1,1,2,2 Tetrachloroethane
Self-Test / Evaluation
Answer the following questions;
1. What is homologous series?
2. What are the procedures for naming an organic compound?
3. Define functional groups and give 4 examples?
4. Define the term isomerism and give 3 examples?
5. What are hydrocarbons?
Mastery / Post-test;
Answer the following questions;
i. Draw the structure of Cyclohexane ii. Draw the structure of Ethanoic acid
Enrichment Opportunities
Study pages 514 – 523 of New School Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools by Osei Yaw
Ababio, 2010 edition.
Also study page 137 of Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN) Chemistry for Senior
Secondary Schools.
WEEK 3: Lesson Three
TOPIC: Hydrocarbons
Sub-topic: Saturated and Unsaturated hydrocarbons, Aliphatic hydrocarbons (Alkanes;
properties, preparation and uses)
Duration: 6 periods (40 minutes per period)
Pre-test:
Answer the following questions;
1. When is a hydrocarbon compound said to be saturated?
2. Give 3 examples each of saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons?
3. What is the general formula of the Alkanes?
4. Outline 3 properties of the Alkane homologous series?
5. Explain two methods of preparing the Alkanes?
6. List 5 uses of the Alkanes?
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Performance objectives
By the end of the lesson, you should be able to;
1. define saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons;
2. give examples of hydrocarbons which are saturated and those which are unsaturated;
3. give the general formula of the Alkanes;
4. list all the properties of the Alkane homologous series;
5. explain the methods of preparing the Alknaes in the laboratory; and
6. identify the uses of the Alkanes.
Concept
Saturated and Unsaturated Hydrocarbons
A saturated hydrocarbon is a compound in which the carbon atoms are joined together by single
covalent bonds. They are hydrocarbons that contain only single carbon-carbon bonds. They are
called the Alkanes (Eg. Methane (CH4), Ethane (C2H6), Propane (C3H8) etc).
An unsaturated hydrocarbon is a compound which contains carbon atoms joined together by
double or triple covalent bonds. Unsaturated hydrocarbons contain double or triple carbon-carbon
bonds. They are the Alkenes (Eg. Ethene (C2H4), Propene (C3H6), etc.) and the Alkynes (Eg.
Ethyne (C2H2), Propyne (C3H4), etc.).
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons – The Alkane homologous series
The alkanes are aliphatic hydrocarbons whose molecules have very similar structures to each other.
They form a homologous series of saturated hydrocarbons whose general molecular formula can
be represented as CnH2n+2, where n is an integer greater than or equal to +1.
The alkanes are hydrocarbons in which the constituent carbon atoms are tetrahedrally bonded by
single covalent bonds to the hydrogen atoms and other carbon atoms.
Below are molecular formula, structural formula and names of some members of the alkane
homologous series, including the isomers. They are arranged in increasing molecular weight.
Molecular
Formula
Structural Formula and Isomers Name
CH4
C
Methane
C2H6
C – C –
Ethane
C3H8
C – C – C –
Propane
H
H H
H
H
H H
H H
H
H
H H
H H
H
H
H
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81
C4H10
C – C – C – C –
C – C – C –
Butane
2-methylpropane
Properties of Alkanes
Combustion; the alkanes burn in oxygen (air) to give out heat, carbon(iv)oxide and steam.
CxHy + 2O2(g) yH2O + xCO2
Eg. CH4(g) + 2O2(g) 2H2O(g) + CO2(g)
Other reactions of alkanes;
Alkanes are generally unreactive because their molecules are non-polar and contain single covalent
bonds. But the only reaction they undergo is the substitution reaction, in which another atom
substitutes a hydrogen atom from the alkane compound. Eg. In the reaction between methane and
chlorine, an atom of chlorine is substituted for a hydrogen atom in the methane molecule as shown
below;
CH4(g) + Cl2(g) CH3Cl(l) + HCl(g)
Chloromethane
CH3Cl(l) + Cl2(g) CH2Cl2(l) + HCl(g)
Dichloromethane
CH2Cl2(l) + Cl2(g) CHCl3(l) + HCl(g)
Trichloromethane
CHCl3(l) + Cl2(g) CCl4(l) + HCl(g)
Tetrachloromethane
Methods of Preparation
The alkanes can be prepared in the following methods;
1. All the alkanes can be obtained by the fractional distillation of crude oil. Although the main
source of methane is natural gas.
2. They can also be prepared in the laboratory by de-carboxylation (removal of CO2) of the
appropriate carboxylic acid.
3. They can also be prepared by heating an appropriate sodium salt with soda-lime.
Uses of Alkanes
H
H H
H H
H
H
H H
H
C
H
H H H
H H
H H H
H
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i. The alkanes are used mainly as fuels. For instance, CH4 is the main component of natural
gas while butane is the main component of camping gas and lighter fuel. Octane is an important
component of petrol.
ii. They are also used to produce very useful unsaturated hydrocarbons such as ethane (C2H4)
through the process of cracking.
iii. Methane is used for making hydrogen, carbon black, carbon(iv)sulphide, alkynes,
hydrocyanic acid, trichloromethane (chloroform, an anaesthetic used in surgical operations),
dichloromethane (CH2Cl2 used for dissolving paints) and tetrachloromethane (an important
organic solvent used for removing grease stains.
Learning Activity 3.1
Materials Needed/Apparatus:
Black coloured plasticine balls (Carbon atoms), White coloured plasticine balls (Hydrogen atoms),
match stick or tooth pick.
Method / Procedure / Instructions
1. Using the carbon and hydrogen atoms (Plasticine balls) and the sticks, make 3 dimensional
models of the following alkane compounds;
i. Propane ii. Butane iii. 2-methylpropane
2. Draw the structural formula of the following alkane compounds;
i. Pentane (C5H12) ii. 2-methylbutane (C5H12) iii. 2,2-dimethylpropane (C5H12)
Self-Test / Evaluation
Answer the following questions;
1. List 5 uses of the Alkanes?
2. What is the general formula of the Alkanes?
3. Explain two methods of preparing the Alkanes?
4. Outline 3 properties of the Alkane homologous series?
5. Give 3 examples of saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons?
6. When is a hydrocarbon compound said to be saturated?
Mastery / Post-test;
Answer the following questions;
1. What is substitution reaction in alkanes?
2. Give 3 differences between saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons?
3. Give 3 examples each of acyclic and cyclic aliphatic hydrocarbons?
Enrichment Opportunities
Study pages 524 – 527 of New School Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools by Osei Yaw
Ababio, 2010 edition.
Also study page 137 – 140 of Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN) Chemistry for
Senior Secondary Schools.
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WEEK 4: Lessons Four and Five
TOPIC: Hydrocarbons
Sub-topic: Alkenes and Alkynes (properties, preparations and uses)
Duration: 6 periods (40 minutes per period)
Pre-test:
Answer the following questions;
1. What are the general molecular formula of the alkenes and alkynes?
2. Why are alkenes and alkynes said to be unsaturated?
3. List the methods of preparing the alkenes and the alkynes?
4. Draw the structures of 4 examples of alkene homologous series?
5. Draw all the isomers of hexyne?
Performance objectives
By the end of the lessons, you should be able to;
1. write the general molecular formula of the alkenes and alkynes;
2. explain unsaturation in the alkenes and alkynes;
3. explain the methods of preparing alkenes and alkynes;
4. identify the structures of alkene homologous series; and
5. explain isomerism in hexyne.
Concept
Lesson Four:
The Alkene homologous series
The alkenes are homologous series of hydrocarbons with a general molecular formula of CnH2n,
where n is a positive integer equal to or greater than 2. They contain 2 hydrogen atoms less than
the alkanes. The alkenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons which contain a carbon-carbon double bond
as well as single bonds. The alkenes are given names similar to the alkanes depending on the
number of carbon atoms in the molecule. The -ane of the corresponding alkane is replaced by -
ene.
Below are molecular formula, structural formula and names of some members of the alkene
homologous series, including the isomers. They are arranged in increasing molecular weight.
Molecular
Formula
Structural Formula and Isomers Name
C2H4
C – C –
Ethene
H H
H H
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C3H6
C – C – C –
Prop-1-ene
C4H10
C – C – C – C –
C – C – C – C –
C – C – C –
But-1-ene
But-2-ene
2-methylprop-1-ene
Properties of Alkenes
Combustion:
The alkenes burn to give carbon(iv)oxide and water, with a smoky and luminous flame because of
the high proportion of carbon.
Eg. C2H4(g) + 3O2(g) 2CO2(g) + 2H2O(l)
Other reactions of alkenes;
The alkenes are generally more reactive than the alkanes because of the double bond in their
structure which make them unsaturated compounds.
Addition Reactions of Ethene (C2H4) and Propene (C3H6) with Bromine.
Due to their unsaturated nature, the alkenes react by addition, which means specie is simply added
on as shown in the following examples;
1. Addition Reactions of Ethene and Propene with Bromine;
a. C2H4(g) + Br2(g) C – C –
Ethene 1,2-dibromoethane
b. C3H6(g) + Br2(g) – C – C – C –
Propene 1,2-dibromopropane
H H
H H H
H
H H
H H H
H H
H
C
H
H H H
H H
H
H
H H
H H H
H H
H
Br
H H
H H
Br
Br
H H
H H
Br
H
H
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Polymerisation:
The alkenes undergo polymerisation especially ethane and its derivatives to form important
compounds such as polyethene, polychloethene, etc.
Polymerisation is a process whereby many simple molecules known as monomers are linked to
form a much larger molecule known as a polymer.
Methods of Preparation:
1. The main commercial source of the alkenes is from the thermal or catalytic cracking of
larger alkane molecules. In the process, mixtures of alkenes are obtained which are separated by
fractional distillation. Eg. C12H26 C8H18 + C4H8
C8H18 C5H12 + C3H6
2. Another method used in the preparation of alkenes involves dehydration of the appropriate
alcohol. Eg. Ethene can be prepared by heating ethanol with conc. tetraoxosulphate (vi) acid
(H2SO4).
C2H5OH(l) C2H4(g) + H2O(l)
Uses of Alkenes:
1. The cracking of petroleum produces large quantities of ethane for industrial uses such as
polyethene products.
2. Propene is used to produce plastics such as Perspex.
3. Buta-1,3-diene is used in synthetic rubber manufacture.
Learning Activity 4.1
Materials Needed/Apparatus:
Black coloured plasticine balls (Carbon atoms), White coloured plasticine balls (Hydrogen atoms),
match stick or tooth pick.
Method / Procedure / Instructions
1. Using the carbon and hydrogen atoms (Plasticine balls) and the sticks, make 3 dimensional
models of the following alkene compounds;
i. Ethene ii. But-1-ene iii. 2-methylprop-1-ene
2. Draw the structural formula of the following alkene compounds;
i. Hex-2-ene (C6H12) ii. Hept-3-ene (C7H14) iii. 3,3-dimethylhept-1-ene (C9H18)
Lesson Five:
The Alkyne homologous series
The alkynes are groups of hydrocarbons which belong to the same homologous series. They have
a general molecular formula of CnH2n-2, where n is a positive integer equal to or greater than 2.
Each alkyne molecule contains four (4) hydrogen atoms less than the corresponding alkane and
two (2) hydrogen atoms less than the corresponding alkene. The alkynes are unsaturated
hydrocarbons which contain a carbon-carbon triple bond as well as single bonds in each molecule.
They show a higher degree of unsaturation than the alkenes and are therefore more reactive than
the alkenes and the alkanes. The alkynes are given names similar to the alkanes depending on the
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number of carbon atoms in the molecule. The -ane of the corresponding alkane is replaced by -
yne.
Below are molecular formula, structural formula and names of some members of the alkyne
homologous series, including the isomers. They are arranged in increasing molecular weight.
Molecular
Formula
Structural Formula and Isomers Name
C2H2
C – C –
Ethyne
C3H4
C – C – C –
Prop-1-yne
C4H6
C – C – C – C –
C – C – C – C –
But-1-yne
But-2-yne
Properties of Alkynes
Combustion:
1. The alkynes (ethyne) burns in air to give a very smoky and luminous flame to form
carbon(iv)oxide and water.
Eg. 2C2H2(g) + 5O2(g) 4CO2(g) + 2H2O(l)
2. If ethyne is used in a special burner with an extra oxygen supply, it burns brilliantly giving
the very hot oxy-acetylene (oxy-ethyne) flame which is capable of cutting through metals.
3. When a sample of ethyne is tested with a lighted taper, it burns with a yellow, sooty flame
owing to its high carbon content and carbon is deposited.
2C2H2(g) + O2(g) 4C(s) + 2H2O(g)
Other reactions of alkynes:
Addition Reactions;
Alkynes are highly unsaturated, containing carbon-carbon triple bond in its structure. They
undergo addition reactions combining with a maximum of four (4) univalent atoms or radicals per
molecule to form addition products. The addition reactions take place in two stages;
a. The first stage yields a product with a carbon-carbon double bond ie. Alkenes.
b. The second stage converts this into a fully saturated compound with only carbon-carbon
single bonds ie. Alkanes.
H H
H H
H
H
H H
H
H H
H
H H
H
H H
H
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Examples
1. Addition reaction of Alkyne (Ethyne) with Hydrogen
C2H2 + H2 C2H4 + H2 C2H6
Ethyne Ethene Ethane
2. Addition reactions of Alkyne (Ethyne) with Halogens (Bromine, Br2)
C2H2 + Br2 C2H2Br2 + Br2 C2H2Br4
Ethyne 1,2-dibromoethene 1,1,2,2-tetrabromoethane
Chlorine reacts explosively with ethyne producing carbon and hydrogen chloride gas
C2H2(g) + Cl2(g) 2C(s) + 2HCl(g)
Ethyne reacts with Chlorine and Bromine in the presence of a catalyst (metallic halide) to yield
halogenated compounds at room temperature.
Polymerisation
Alkynes also polymerises especially, ethyne which polymerises to form the aromatic hydrocarbon,
benzene (C6H6) when it is passed through a hot tube containing a complex organo-nickel catalyst.
3C2H2(g) C6H6(g)
Methods of Preparation:
1. alkynes can be prepared in the laboratory by the action of alcoholic potassium hydroxide
on dibromoalkanes.
Eg. CH2BrCH2Br KOH/C2
H5
OH C2H2 + 2HBr
1,2-dibromoethane Ethyne
2. However, ethyne can be prepared in the laboratory conveniently by the action of cold water
on calcium carbide.
ie. CaC2(s) + 2H2O(l) – C – C –
Calcium carbide Ethyne
Uses of Alkynes:
1. Ethyne is used as the starting material for the production of Polyvinychloride (PVC),
1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane (a solvent for grease and oils), artificial or synthetic fibres and ethanoic
acid.
2. Ethyne is used in the oxyacetylene torch and in lamps.
Learning Activity 4.2
Materials Needed/Apparatus:
Black coloured plasticine balls (Carbon atoms), White coloured plasticine balls (Hydrogen atoms),
match stick or tooth pick.
Method / Procedure / Instructions
1. Using the carbon and hydrogen atoms (Plasticine balls) and the sticks, make 3 dimensional
models of the following alkyne compounds;
i. Ethyne ii. Prop-1-yne iii. But1-yne iv. But-2-yne
2. Draw the structural formula of the following alkyne compounds;
H H
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i. Pent-2-yne (C5H8). ii. Hex-3-yne (C6H10). iii.3,5-dimethylhept-1-ene (C9H16).
Self-Test / Evaluation
Answer the following questions;
1. What are the general molecular formula of the alkenes and alkynes?
2. Why are alkenes and alkynes said to be unsaturated?
3. List the methods of preparing the alkenes and the alkynes?
4. Draw the structures of 4 examples of alkene homologous series?
5. Draw all the isomers of hexyne?
Mastery / Post-test;
Answer the following questions;
1. What are aromatic hydrocarbons?
2. Draw the resonating structures of benzene?
3. In a tabular format, distinguish between the alkanes, alkenes and alkynes?
Enrichment Opportunities
Study pages 528 – 535 of New School Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools by Osei Yaw
Ababio, 2010 edition.
Also study page 149 – 154 of Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN) Chemistry for
Senior Secondary Schools.
Appendix B: Chemistry Achievement Test on Organic Chemistry (CATOC)
Section A
Name of school:...................................................................................................................
Name of student:.................................................................................................................
Class:...............................................
Sex: Male Female (Tick )
Section B
Instructions
a. Choose and tick only the correct answer from options a - d
b. Erase completely any answer made in error
c. Do not cheat in any form d. Time allowed is 1.30 hrs
e. Answer all the questions.
Questions
1. The following are general characteristics of carbon except?
a. covalent nature and non-polar. b. low melting and boiling points
c. low reactivity with other elements except oxygen and the halogens
d. hydrogen bond in petrol
2. Exceptional large number of carbon compounds is essentially due to the ability of?
a. carbon to catenate liberally b. various groups to catenate
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c. nitrogen, hydrogen, phosphorous and the halogens to catenate with themselves
d. hydrocarbons to dominate other groups
3. What is the name of C(CH3)4?
a. butane b. tetramethyl butane. c. methyl propane. d. 2,2-dimethyl propane
4. What is the name of the homologous series with the general formula shown below?
O
R – C NH2
a. amine. b. amino acids. c. oxy-amines. d. amides.
5. Which is not among the characteristics of functional groups in organic compounds?
a. determine the chemical properties of the homologous series
b. does not modify the other when they are more than one in a molecule
c. have a general formula which may include the functional group
d. are responsible for the physical properties
6. The IUPAC name of ClCH2-CH2-CH2OH is?
a. 1-chloropropan-3-ol. b. 3-chloropropan-1-ol. c. 1-chloropropanol.
d. 3-chloropropanol.
7. Which of these compounds is not a hydrocarbon?
a. benzene b. ethane c. ethanol d. butyne
8. What is the name given to the compound shown below?
CH2
H2C CH2
H2C CH2
CH2
a. benzene b. hexane c. cyclohexane d. hydrobenzene
9. When two or more compounds have the same molecular formula but different structures
they are known as?
a. allotropes. b. tantamerism. c. mirror isomers. d. structural isomers.
10. Which is not among the uses of Petroleum?
a. fuels only. b. fuels and money. c. fuels and pollutants.
d. fuels and petrochemical raw materials
11. The main natural sources of hydrocarbons are from fossil fuels and these include except?
a. natural gas b. coke c. coal d. petroleum
12. Alkenes and Alkynes reacts the same, except with?
a. ammoniacal AgNO3 solution. b. oxygen. c. bromine water.
d. acidified KMNO4 solution.
13. Functional group for the alkanol is?
a. -OH. b. CnH2n-2 c. COOH d. OH-
14. What is this compound CH3(CH2)2CONH2 called?
a. methyl amine. b. butyl amine. c. butyl amide. d. Urea.
15. Which among the following is an aromatic hydrocarbon?
a. cyclopentane b. toluene c. pentanal d. ethane
16. What is the product formed when methane reacts with chlorine; CH4 + Cl2 ?
a. CH4Cl2 + H2 b. CH3Cl + HCl c. CH2Cl + 2HCl d. CH2Cl2 + H2
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17. Which of the following compounds is an alkane?
a. C2H2 b. C3H6 c. C4H6 d. C6H14
18. What type of reaction takes place when ethane reacts with hydrogen bromide?
a. oxidation reaction b. substitution reaction c. addition reaction
d. polymerisation reaction
19. Which of the following molecules is the most unsaturated?
a. ethyne b. methane c. ethene d. propane
20. Write the general formula for the alkynes?
a. CnH2n b. CnH2n+2 c. CnH2n-2 d. CnH2n-n
21. Hydrocarbons are organic compounds that contain....?
a. carbon and oxygen only. b. carbon, hydrogen and oxygen only.
c. carbon and sulphur only. d. carbon and hydrogen only.
22. Which method is often used in separating the hydrocarbons found in petroleum?
a. catalytic cracking b. polymerisation c. fractional distillation
d. hydrogenation
23. Which of the following compounds do not exhibit isomerism?
a. C2H6 b. C4H8 c. C6H14 d. C5H8
24. What is the name of the compound C2H5COOH?
a. ethanoic acid. b. propanoic acid. c. Butanoic acid. d. methanoic acid.
25. what is the general molecular formula of the alkene homologous series?
a. CnHn b. CnH2n+2 c. CnH2n d. CnH2n2-2
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Appendix C: CATOC Marking Guide
1. d
2. a
3. d
4. d
5. b
6. b
7. c
8. c
9. d
10. c
11. b
12. b
13. a
14. c
15. b
16. b
17. d
18. b
19. a
20. c
21. d
22. c
23. a
24. b
25. c
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Appendix D: TEST BLUE PRINT FOR THE CATOC
Content Knowledge
(Remembering)
45%
Comprehension
(Understanding)
30%
Application
(Thinking)
25%
Total
Structure and Valency
of Carbon - 10%
A
1
B
1
C
1
Ta
3
Hydrocarbons
(Saturated,Unsaturated,
Alkanes, Alkenes and
Alkynes) - 45%
D
5
E
3
F
3
Tb
11
Isomerism,
Homologous series,
Functional groups)
25%
G
3
H
2
I
1
Tc
6
IUPAC Nomenclature
20%
J
2
K
2
L
1
Td
5
Total Te
11
Tf
8
Tg
6
25
Calculations:
Total number of items = 25
From the table above, ‘Structure and valency of carbon’ was allotted 10%; ‘Hydrocarbons
(saturated, unsaturated, alkanes, alkenes and alkynes)’ had 45%, ‘Isomerism, Homologous series
and Functional groups’ had 25%; while IUPAC nomenclature was allotted 20%. Likewise,
Knowledge was allotted 40%, Comprehension 35% and Application 25%.
Calculating the totals, Ta to Tg;
Ta = 10/100 × 25 = 3 Tb = 45/100 × 25 = 11
Tc = 25/100 × 25 = 6 Td = 20/100 × 25 = 5
Te = 45/100 × 25 = 11 Tf = 30/100 × 25 = 8
Tg = 25/100 × 25 = 6
Calculating the number of items/questions for each cell, A to L;
A = 11/25 × 3 = 1 B = 8/25 × 3 = 1 C = 6/25 × 3 = 1
D = 11/25 × 11 = 5 E = 8/25 × 11 = 3 F = 6/25 ×11 = 3
G = 11/25 × 6 = 3 H = 8/25 × 6 = 2 I = 6/25 × 6 = 1
J = 11/25 × 5 = 2 K = 8/25 × 5 = 2 L = 6/25 × 5 = 1